Skateboarding and skiing are high-impact sports that require proper foot and lower limb function to perform. Both activities involve repetitive movements, putting considerable stress on the lower limbs, which can lead to various lower limb issues. In this article, we will explore the factors that cause lower limb issues in skateboarding and skiing, the common conditions that arise, and how a biomechanics consultant and foot orthotics can help.
Biomechanical Imbalances: Biomechanical imbalances are deviations from normal joint or muscle function. Skateboarding and skiing require a lot of jumping, landing, and twisting movements that can cause joint misalignments or muscular imbalances.
Muscular Imbalances: Muscular imbalances occur when some muscles are weaker or stronger than others. In skateboarding and skiing, certain muscles like quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip flexors can become overworked, leading to muscle imbalances and potential injuries.
Improper Equipment Fit: Poor equipment fit can cause excessive pressure on certain joints or muscles, leading to discomfort or pain. For example, ski boots that are too tight can cause shin splints, while skate shoes that don’t fit correctly can cause foot numbness.
Shin Splints: Shin splints are a common lower limb issue among skateboarders and skiers, characterized by pain in the shin area. This condition occurs when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the shin become inflamed due to repetitive stress.
Ankle Sprains: Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle joint become stretched or torn. Skateboarding and skiing require quick movements and changes of direction that can put the ankle joint at risk for sprains.
Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a common condition among skateboarders and skiers, characterized by pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The high-impact nature of skateboarding and skiing can cause repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
A biomechanics consultant can identify any biomechanical or muscular imbalances contributing to lower limb issues. They can conduct an equipment fit analysis to ensure proper alignment and positioning and offer appropriate exercises or modifications to address imbalances.
Foot orthotics can also be beneficial in treating lower limb issues in skateboarding and skiing. Orthotics can help correct abnormal foot mechanics, distribute pressure, and provide additional support as needed. They can also improve shock absorption, reducing the risk of injury.
In conclusion, lower limb issues are common among skateboarders and skiers due to the high-impact nature of these sports. A biomechanics consultant and foot orthotics can provide essential assistance by identifying imbalances, offering appropriate exercises, and providing corrective support. By seeking the help of a biomechanics consultant and using foot orthotics, skateboarders and skiers can continue to enjoy their sport and perform at their best while minimizing the risk of lower limb injuries.
